It is important to check the consistency of the batter.
If it is running you can’t make good vada and if the batter is too thick
the vada will not be soft.

Wet your palm and make small balls with the batter
press it and make small hole with your thumb.(Each time you have to wet
your hand).First time you feel it as tough but by practice it will be easy.
Or you can use plantain leaf(vazhayila)for shaping the vada.